The National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Connecticut Chapter has named Easton resident Susan L. Davis, R.N., Ed.D, a 2009 MS Corporate Achiever – one of only 30 business leaders to be named this year.

Davis, who is president and chief executive officer at St. Vincent’s Medical Center and St. Vincent’s Health Services in Bridgeport, received her Bachelor of Science degree in nursing from Mount Saint Mary College in Newburgh, N.Y., and her Master of Arts degree in nursing administration from Columbia University in New York, N.Y. Davis received her Doctorate of Education with an emphasis in management from Columbia University. Davis is a fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives. She has been the CEO at St. Vincent’s since 2004. From 1986 to 2004, Davis was at Vassar Brothers Medical Center in Poughkeepsie, N.Y. While there, Davis developed and established multiple clinical services, including a new regional heart center.

“I want to give back,” said Davis, who was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 2005. “Those who have come before me have discovered treatments that have helped to assure and improve my quality of life.”

Established by the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Connecticut Chapter in 2000, MS Corporate Achievers is a recognition program honoring some of Connecticut’s most influential leaders while at the same time raising critically needed funds to ensure ongoing scientific research and provide for the continuation of vital programs and services offered by the chapter to the more than 6,000 Connecticut residents diagnosed with MS. Honorees are nominated by their peers and selected by an advisory council for outstanding contributions to business, civic and cultural enrichment. Through participation, honorees join an elite leadership network sharing a commitment to making Connecticut a better place in which to live. Since 2000, honorees have raised more than $600,000 to help end the devastating effects of multiple sclerosis.

Davis is a longtime supporter of the National MS Society, Connecticut Chapter and other civic and nonprofit organizations. Currently serving as the first vice chairperson of the Bridgeport Regional Business Council, Davis has received both local and national recognition for her commitment to volunteerism and community. Davis has been actively involved in the United Way, Hospice and the American Cancer Society in New York and Connecticut.

“Dr. Davis is a hands-on leader,” said Lisa Gerrol, Connecticut Chapter president. “Those who work with her know that when there is need, she is willing to don scrubs and work side by side with staff. As a result of her considerable experience in nursing, she offers a unique perspective as she focuses on patient care and developing programs that respond to the needs of the community. She is also committed to raising funds in the fight against MS and devoted to ensuring quality of life for people with multiple sclerosis and other disabilities.”

For more information on the MS Corporate Achievers program or to nominate a candidate for MS Corporate Achievers, please call 860-913-2550. To learn more about MS, its effects and the many ways the National MS Society, Connecticut Chapter assists those with living with MS, please visit www.ctfightsMS.org.